Factors influencing tissue culture responses of mature seeds and immature embryos in turf-type tall fescue

In an effort to optimize tissue culture responses of turf‐type tall fescue for genetic transformation, the effects of five culture medium supplements on tissue culture responses were investigated with immature embryos and mature seeds of an elite cultivar, ‘Coronado’, as explant tissues. For both explants, calli induced on 6‐benzylaminopurine (BAP)‐containing medium had significantly improved regeneration ability. The optimal concentration of BAP for the induction of regenerable callus from mature seeds was 0.1 mg/l. Thidiazuron also improved callus regeneration frequency of mature seeds. Casein hydrolysate, L‐proline and myo‐inositol improved callus induction of immature embryos but not mature seeds. They did not improve callus regeneration frequencies with either explant tissue. By simply slicing the mature seeds into two halves longitudinally, the callus induction frequencies, as well as the corresponding overall plant regeneration frequencies, were increased approximately three‐ to six‐fold in all three combinations of 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and BAP in callus induction media.